July 2, 2008 memo from US Defense contractor Northrop Grumman
concerning the release of three American Northrop Grumman employees
held prisoner since February 2003 by the Revolutionary Armed Forces
for Colombia People's Army (FARC-EP, or more commonly "FARC").

Assumed to be working for the United States on a contracted spying
mission, the Northrop plane was shot down over FARC-held
territory in 2003.

Text version:

Northrop Grumman Employees Released in Colombia
To Our Colleagues:
We have just received confirmation that our three Northrop Grumman
co-workers, Marc Gonsalves, Thomas Howes and Keith Stansell, held
hostage in Colombia by the Revolutionary Armed Forces for Colombia
(FARC) since February 2003, have been rescued and released into the
safekeeping of the U.S. Government. This is the outcome we have
been hoping and working for ever since they were captured.
The situation in Colombia is still unfolding, and there are many
questions still to be answered. As more facts become known and our
employees return to U.S. soil, we will share more news of their
return and condition. Please keep Marc, Tom and Keith and their
families in your hearts and prayers as their long ordeal finally
reaches a happy conclusion.
Ron Sugar Wes Bush
Chairman and President and
Chief Executive Officer Chief Operating Officer